“works pretty well” is not a controversial claim, but “motivates theoretical progress” is more iffy.
Offhand, I would say that it motivates incremental progress and applied aspects. I don’t think it motivates attempts at breakthroughs and basic science.
‘Breakthroughs and basic science’ seem to be running in to diminishing returns lately. As a policy matter, I think we (human civilization) should focus more on applying what we already know about the basics, to do what we’re already doing more efficiently.
“works pretty well” is not a controversial claim, but “motivates theoretical progress” is more iffy.
Offhand, I would say that it motivates incremental progress and applied aspects. I don’t think it motivates attempts at breakthroughs and basic science.
‘Breakthroughs and basic science’ seem to be running in to diminishing returns lately. As a policy matter, I think we (human civilization) should focus more on applying what we already know about the basics, to do what we’re already doing more efficiently.